Bird poop topic of public meeting tonight

A group called the River Walk Watershed Alliance (spearheaded by the San Antonio River Authority) is building a public service campaign asking folks to not feed the River Walk’s wildlife, whether they be ducks, pigeons or herons.

The problem is that the River Walk is overpopulated with wildlife. Friendly pedestrians, combined with restaurants with riverside seating, and word got out real quick that the River Walk is a prime attraction not just for people, but for wildlife. An overabundant bird population means more bird poop is released into the San Antonio River, which is causing increased levels in bacteria.

“What we’ve encountered are people who don’t consider the fact that people food is bringing more wildlife than the trees and the river itself can feed,” said Karen Bishop, who represents the San Antonio River Authority on the alliance. “When we explain that to them and make the link to the higher bacteria levels, more people understand.”

The alliance’s message spreads much further. River Walk restaurants, for example, are being ask to bus their tables more frequently. Residents are being asked to make sure garbage bags are sealed tight.

The River Walk Watershed Alliance is holding its first public meeting 5-7 tonight at the Central Library’s auditorium. Visit the alliance’s Web site for more info.

Benjamin Olivo

One Response

and lest we forget the many many homeless who use the river as their toilet as well. what i would like to see is the city enact a ban on those pocket flasks of alcohol being sold around downtown. if i see one more of those bottles lying on the group…i’ll scream.

there’s a handful of liquor stores in the downtown area and they do the community a disservice by selling to the homeless.